The Federal Trade Commission issued a policy statement on Thursday. It says that health apps and wearable companies must warn their users of data breaches or face fines.
In a policy statement adopted during an open meeting, the Commission noted that health apps, which can track everything from glucose levels for those with diabetes to heart health to fertility to sleep, increasingly collect sensitive and personal data from consumers These apps have a responsibility to ensure they secure the data they collect, which includes preventing unauthorized access to such information.
Excellent news. Now they should make sure the fines are high enough to deter repeat offenders (cough T-Mobile).
Check It Out: Health Apps Must Warn Users of Data Breaches, Says FTC